Nehru Mantapa to attract tourists with its new look

The Nehru Mantapa, a watchtower, is all set to attract tourists with its new look.

Due to lack of maintenance, the Mantapa had also lost its sheen. Now, however, the tourism department has taken up development work at a cost of Rs 18 lakh.

Weeds grown all over the surroundings had covered the entire Mantapa. As a result, the visitors were not finding it appealing or interesting to visit the Mantapa. It had also become a haven for miscreants and drunkards.

The Kodagu Nirmithi Kendra has taken up the renovation work. The work on the new wall for the Mantapa, steps, electricity connections and seating arrangements have been taken up. About 60% of the works have been completed.

The Nehru Mantapa is situated on a hilly range and the visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature and take in the scenic view. Eight granite benches have been laid for seating arrangements for the visitors. Attractive steps have been installed for the visitors to reach the Mantapa.

In addition, flower pots will be kept on either side of the steps, said Nirmithi Kendra Project Director Sachin. The work will be completed and the Mantapa will be handed over to the CMC within a month.

He said that in the interest of the safety of tourist, CCTV camera will be installed at Nehru Mantapa. Parking facilities will be provided near the entrance.

The tourists from outside the district visit Raja Seat, Rajara Gadduge, Fort, Abbeyfalls, Omkareshwara Temple and return. But Nehru Mantapa situated adjacent to Raja Seat is not noticed by the tourists. With the development works, Nehru Mantapa will be added in the itinerary of the tourists, he added.

Sachin said entry fee will be introduced at Nehru Mantapa in the future. A security person will be deployed for the safety of visitors. The CMC will recruit a security personnel.

“Tourists who visit Madikeri wish to visit a viewpoint. With the Nehru Mantapa being developed, it will be a new tourist spot,” said Santhosh Acharya, a resident of Indira Nagara.

History

It is said that in 1957, the then prime minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru had visited Kodagu and had enjoyed the scenic beauty from the spot.

To commemorate his visit, a Mantapa was constructed and named after him.